A NASA astronaut has captured breathtaking footage of the aurora australis, or southern lights, from the International Space Station (ISS). The video shows vibrant green and red ribbons of light dancing across the night sky above the southern hemisphere.
Spectacular Display from Orbit
The footage, taken in June 2026, reveals the aurora australis as a dynamic, swirling phenomenon. The astronaut described the scene as 'dancing and snaking' across the atmosphere, with curtains of light shifting in real time. The aurora is caused by charged particles from the sun interacting with Earth's magnetic field and atmosphere.
Unique Perspective
While the aurora borealis is more commonly seen from northern latitudes, the aurora australis is equally stunning but harder to observe due to the remoteness of Antarctica. From the ISS, orbiting at about 400 kilometers altitude, astronauts get a front-row seat to both polar light shows. The video highlights the aurora's full extent, stretching hundreds of kilometers across the globe.
The ISS orbits Earth every 90 minutes, allowing astronauts to witness multiple sunrises and sunsets, as well as frequent aurora events. This particular display was captured during a period of increased solar activity, which enhances the brightness and frequency of auroras.
Scientists study these light shows to better understand space weather and its effects on satellite communications and power grids. The footage also serves as a reminder of the beauty of our planet when viewed from space.
